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Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Up From the Ashes: Uncovering the Kingdom of Tambora

In April of 1815, the largest volcanic eruption in recorded modern history made its mark on the world with a vengeance. Mt. Tambora, on the Indonesian island of Sumbawa, exploded with such an explosive force that it's atmospheric effects influenced weather patterns across faraway Europe and North America. In one evening alone, it destroyed at least one entire kingdom of people on this ill-fated island. Like the city of Pompeii of ancient Rome, the cultural and human remains of this civilization are now being meticulously revealed under the careful and systematic investigation of archaeologists. House structures, artifacts, human skeletal remains, all are emerging to paint a picture of a people long forgotten in ashes.

Excavations

From June 20 to July 3, 2010, Dr. M. Geria of the Bali Institute for Archaeology will be leading the instruction of archaeological excavations at a site where it is estimated that a community of approximately 10,000 people lived. House structures and artifacts have already been excavated, but a team will continue the progress next summer by continuing and expanding the current work to expose more of what remains of a little-known civilization that was, like Pompeii and Herculaneum of ancient Rome, frozen in an instant of time and place. Who were these people and how did they live? What stories will their bones and artifacts say about them and the world in which they lived in early 19th century Indonesia? Volunteers, students, and archaeologists are invited to join the team to help shed more light on this mystery. Participants will lodge in a nearby guesthouse or, optionally, may camp near the excavation site in tents. When not working, participants will have the opportunity to explore the area, which may include the beautiful beaches, a short boat trip to Satonda Island, a climb to the summit of Mt Tambora, or hikes in the vicinity of the dig. Team members will work with local archaeologists and, through their cash contribution for dig participation, will learn archaeological excavation, recording and investigative techniques, along with knowing the satisfaction of helping to finance the needs of the local archaeologists and community.

Join the Team!

Looking for an adventure? If interested, write to travel4pros_indonesia@yahoo.com for more information and how to apply. You may also visit the websiteherefor more detailed information.